George Russell has offered a new perspective on Lewis Hamilton as a team-mate during their shared years at Mercedes, highlighting the unique traits that set Hamilton apart within the team. Their time together coincided with significant shifts in the Formula 1 paddock, and “Lewis Hamilton as a team-mate” remains a point of focus for fans and insiders as Hamilton moves into his chapter with Ferrari.
Russell’s Experience Working Alongside Hamilton
During the three seasons Russell spent alongside Hamilton at Mercedes, both drivers experienced considerable change, with Russell surpassing Hamilton by 22 points in their final year as team-mates. Following Hamilton’s move to Ferrari, George Russell has naturally assumed the leadership mantle at Mercedes, achieving two race victories in the 2025 season. These results have bolstered Toto Wolff’s confidence in Russell’s potential to one day secure the world championship for Mercedes.
Key Lessons Learned from a Champion
In a recent interview with Maxim, Russell reflected on what he learned from working within the same garage as the seven-time world champion. When asked which lessons from Hamilton have influenced his own approach since taking a leading role at Mercedes, Russell did not hesitate to focus on Hamilton’s positive influence on the team’s environment and his dedication to hard work.
“I think the biggest thing I learned from him is just how he kept the morale around the team so high, even through moments of difficulty,”
George Russell explained. Russell further praised Hamilton by pointing to his consistent leadership and work ethic:
“You know, he was a true leader within this team, and he was a true hard worker. He was the first in, last out, and that set the standard for everybody else within the team.”
Transition to Ferrari and Upcoming Challenges
Hamilton will need to bring his uplifting spirit and tireless attitude as he heads into his second season with Ferrari, where the team faces substantial challenges following a disappointing 2025 campaign. Ferrari finished only fourth in the constructors’ championship, and neither Hamilton nor his team-mate Charles Leclerc managed to secure a single race win last year. Looking ahead to 2026, the pressure is on Ferrari’s drivers and leadership squad to restore the team to its winning ways.
Lasting Influence Within Formula 1
As the 2026 season approaches, Russell’s comments highlight the lasting influence Hamilton leaves behind at Mercedes and the standards now set by the team’s former leader. These lessons continue to shape Russell’s leadership style as Mercedes aims for another championship, while at Ferrari, Hamilton’s arrival is seen as a pivotal chance to reverse their recent fortunes and instill a new sense of drive within the Maranello-based squad.
